How do I select patients for students?

The selection of patients will reveal the student’s abilities to manage patients in a variety of clinical situations. Consider the following when selecting patients for the students:

• • Understand and know the clinical objectives for the clinical placement.
  • Allow the student to gain confidence before assigning complex patients.
  • Begin with a reduced workload so the student can manage and then quickly increase caseload as they integrate knowledge and gain confidence.
  • Gradually introduce new patients and experiences.
  • Observe how the student manages assigned patient presentations.
  • Consider selecting patients outside of the current caseload to meet the students’ clinical expectations.